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Statement on Immigration Executive Actions

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-CA) issued the following statement in response to a series of executive actions regarding immigration enforcement announced by the Trump administration:

“The Trump administration’s executive actions on immigration are an attempt to appease the far right at the expense of our values, security, and economic well-being. Contrary to Trump’s claims, these cynical orders will only undermine local law enforcement, waste taxpayer dollars, and strain our relationship with a crucial ally.

“As a former 911 dispatcher, I know how critical it is for local law enforcement to have good working relationships with their communities. Local law enforcement officials have enough on their plate and know what’s best to keep their communities safe. Today’s orders will create greater fear and distrust between local police and immigrant communities and will lead to more crimes going unreported and endanger the lives of all Americans.

“Donald Trump’s decision to expand on our already existing border fence and to recklessly ramp up enforcement actions are equally dangerous and ill-conceived. He should spend more time visiting the border, meeting with border agents, and speaking to the people who live and work in border areas. They will tell you that a wall is not the answer and that it will actually weaken our security and hurt local economies.

“If the President was truly concerned with addressing illegal immigration and securing the border, he would focus on investments to address root causes, and he would work with Congress to advance bipartisan immigration reform that upholds our values and strengthens our economy.”